RIYADH – Saudi Arabia King Shah Salman bin Abdulaziz on Tuesday called on citizens to perform Salat al-Istisqa, a special prayer for rain, across the kingdom on Thursday, November 13, due to continued below-average rainfall.
The announcement was made through an official statement by the Saudi Royal Court on Tuesday.
The Royal Court’s statement urged citizens to turn to Allah Almighty in repentance, seek forgiveness for past sins, and maintain good conduct towards others, particularly by showing kindness to employees and helping the needy. Citizens were also encouraged to perform charitable acts and engage in other good deeds as part of the spiritual preparation for the prayer.
Sheikh Yasser Al-Dosari will lead the prayer and deliver the sermon at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, one of Islam’s holiest sites. Authorities are expected to ensure smooth arrangements for worshippers attending the prayer at the Grand Mosque, as well as at other mosques across the kingdom.
This call for a special prayer comes amid concerns over insufficient rainfall in several regions of Saudi Arabia. Religious leaders and government officials have emphasized the importance of uniting in prayer to seek Allah’s mercy and blessings, highlighting the historical practice of performing Salat al-Istisqa during times of drought or agricultural difficulty.
It may be recalled that a similar prayer for rain was observed in the United Arab Emirates on October 17, where mosques across the country conducted special prayers following a dry spell. Such prayers are deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and serve both spiritual and social purposes, fostering communal solidarity while appealing for divine intervention.
